According to zxcvbob :
Chris Lewis wrote:
Since the "automatic transfer" equipment would be shared w.r.t. "emergency"
versus "normal", "normal" use would be in violation of code _too_.

You do realize the refrigerator will be just fine for a short time
without power, and during an extended outage you can run it from an
extension cord? The same thing goes for the sump pump. The water
softener doesn't need backup electric power (after an extended power
outage you might have to do a manual recharge.) So not everything you
might want to use during a power outage needs to be wired to the
transfer panel. It depends how hands-on you are willing to get.

If you don't want to have to do anything, put a big automatic transfer
switch between the meter and the main panel and use the main panel for
all the power distribution.

For the most part, if the person has a smallish/portable generator
(say, 5500W or less), I tend to suggest that they don't bother with
transfer switches and the like, and rely on (adequate!) extension cords.
The only "prep" work they might wish to consider is to rewire the
critical hard-wired devices (ie: furnace blowers) so that they're running
off receptacles (replacement of hard wire with flexible power cord, plug
and receptacle). Secondly, prepare a "hard point" for where the generator
will be parked in use (stanchions/chains/padlocks[+], "rain roof" etc), and
possibly a resealable hole for where the cords go through into the house.

[Never _ever_ run your generator in an enclosed space.]

Then, when you have a power failure, you just follow a schedule of
what needs to be connected and for how long. For example, a fridge
will probably be perfectly fine with half an hour of operation for
every 6-12 hours of outage. A freezer even less. Keeping in mind
the max output of the generator...

Strictly speaking, running things like furnaces off "cords" is
frequently a code violation, but most inspectors will consider
"emergency preparedness" to be a good reason. Just make sure
that the installation is otherwise in excess of code. Eg: _adequate_
power cords - SOW cable for "appliance cord", not lamp cord,
with appropriate measures to prevent damage to it.

As for "adequate extension cords", anything but smallish loads should
be fed with heavy duty extension cords. Eg: consider 12ga "contractor
grade"/"building site" cords[*] as your _minimum_.

[+] There's a special place in hell reserved for those who steal
emergency equipment during an emergency. _Especially_ from emergency
measures organizations. During the "great" ice storm, we actually
had people stealing generators from hospitals and road maintenance
depots.
[*] The brightly coloured fat and expensive ones. Often rated "SOW"
or better.
--
Chris Lewis, Una confibula non set est
It's not just anyone who gets a Starship Cruiser class named after them.